Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones cover your ears and plunge you into audio. They are typically made for audiophiles and come with features such as active noise cancellation and control apps.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless device that comes with ANC as well as a mobile app to adjust the EQ, and presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones by Sony are the most recent upgrade in their noise cancellation lineup. The headphones feature a brand new design and improved ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with higher-end sound quality and better materials.
At just 250g, they're a light weight for over-ear ANC headsets. They are very comfortable to wear, no matter if you're reading or listening to an audiobook. The headband is soft, and it features an ear-friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from becoming too cold.
With a sound quality that can satisfy those who enjoy music casually and audiophiles, the WH1000XM5's sound signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass but is not overpowering or harsh. The earphones boast a huge and spacious soundstage, with excellent instrument separation. This lets you listen to the subtleties of your music. The earcups feature control buttons that are easy to use and responsive. Swipe forward to go to the next track,
headphones Shop back to hear the previous one, and up and down to regulate the volume. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices at once and, thanks to a built-in sensor, they automatically pause the playback when removed from your head. You can also switch on ambient mode by placing your palm on the right ear cup that lets you listen to what's happening around you, without taking off the headphones.
Other useful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made from premium fabric and an USB-C cable for charging. The headphones are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The WH-1000XM5's life expectancy is superb. In our standard battery test we had 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on, which was better than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's mic performance on calls is superb, and there's no muffled or static-y sounding background. Noise cancelling is also excellent and these headphones are great for public transportation and the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering top-quality performance and features. The Bowers and Wilkins PX7 S2 offers premium performance and features, including 24bit wireless streaming and active noise cancellation optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile device or tablet. The 40mm drivers that are custom-designed for the device are precisely positioned inside each earcup to provide an enhanced, more deep listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones guarantee superior call clarity even in noisy environments. A built-in microphone and remote allows you to control music and calls from any device that is compatible.
Like the original PX7, these headphones are elegant and refined with accent rings on each earcup, and a silver-colored headband. The earcups are cushioned by memory foam and fit comfortably on the cranium, yet don't feel tight. The redesigned shape and form took many months to perfect, and provides an easy clamping force that isn't too hard even on my own cranium that is rotund.
They are 2 ounces lighter (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. They're light enough to fit in your backpack or bag without any discomfort, and they'll stay comfortably in place for long listening sessions. The headband can be folded up by using a sturdy hinge on the back.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support which is ideal for high-resolution audio and fast video sync. The included 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port that is located on the right earcup. The status indicator on the earphone is a nice addition. It flashes green to indicate rapid charging, and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App provides the same controls that the buttons on the hardware provide - bass and treble adjustments actions button assignments, wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also displays an album cover and track title when you play music on your iPhone. However, some popular features such as music presets or a soundscapes feature are not available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the iconic Sennheiser headphones and is designed to meet the most demanding expectations. The design and construction of the headphones has been optimized to provide an impressive detail resolution that encompasses all of the frequency spectrum, dynamic range, and stereo panorama. It provides the most realistic spatial audio you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, therefore a high-quality headphone amplifier will be needed to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which can increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
These headphones are designed for professional use. They have a metal frame, and a mix of plastic and leather padding. The design is rather minimalist and doesn't resemble a fancy pair of headphones, but they feel luxurious in the hands and are well-built. They come with a carrying case, an additional audio cable and an 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces instruments and vocals with a natural sound, even however they are less bass-y. The open-back design results in a wide, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent, with minor peaks and drops. The treble region also has a linear quality which means you won't have any issues with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of a drum snare.
Despite not having a high-pitched bass, they still provide dynamism and impact when required. These headphones are still enjoyable for those who love rock music with a punchy bass, but may not be as impressive as some of the other models on this list.
In the mids in the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They are extremely linear and have a slight slop in the upper mids, which should not be noticeable to the majority of listeners. They are also able to reproduce fine time gradations in vocals, which is a big benefit.
The HD 800 S are a pair of outstanding headphones, ideal for audiophiles and professionals. Their impressive sonic performance and comfortable fitting make them a great choice. They're expensive however, you're getting
headphones shop that will last for many years to be used and perform at their best in any setting.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a great pair of headphones that will provide the perfect solution for anyone who wants to relax or just wants an affordable pair of noise-cancelling headphones. They come with a basic pouch that will give them some protection when you throw them into your bag, and their battery is capable of lasting several long haul flights. Their ANC does a great job of blocking out chattering seatmates and engine rumbles on an airplane, although their audio profile is warm and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls can be easy to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup, you'll find buttons for pairing and powering up the headphones as well as turning on or off the active noise cancellation.
